2014 Dreamers and Allies Run

DAR began in 2012 with Hugo Dominguez’s desires to: (1) continually challenge himself; (2) stand up for and represent our undocumented community; and (3) strengthen and unite his neighborhood. Hugo was born in Mexico, but grew up in Chicago’s historic Back of the Yards neighborhood. He has worked hard to reach his dreams and has always fought to challenge the stereotypes imposed on youth from the Back of the Yards. Hugo is a college student, mentor, marimba player, cumbia band bassist, loving son and brother, great friend. Hugo is a smart, driven, talented person, but at times, he has felt depressed and discouraged by the limitations brought on by his undocumented status. Guided by his vision of a community that responds to injustices, Hugo decided to take the courageous step of sharing his story to the world. On March 10, 2012, he participated in the national “Coming Out of the Shadows Day” event at Daley Plaza. Hugo, along with eight other courageous individuals, shared their stories of fear, anger, despair, but also their stories of hope, strength, talent, dignity, and faith.

LISTEN TO HUGO’S SPEECH:

Hugo’s participation in this national event called attention to the plight of our undocumented brothers and sisters, but it also gave him the opportunity to proudly proclaim to the world that he is UNDOCUMENTED, UNAFRAID, and UNAPOLOGETIC. The experience provided him with strength, courage, and reinforced his desire to keep on moving forward, despite the challenges that he faces. He is committed to empower, inspire, and motivate other undocumented students to continue on their way and reach their academic dreams. Since Hugo had signed up for the 2012 marathon, he decided to use it an opportunity to represent the undocumented community and raise awareness of the struggles faced by this often marginalized group. He also decided to utilize this opportunity to raise much needed funds to help undocumented college students from the Back of the Yards fund their education, since these students do not qualify for state or federal financial aid.

Hugo approached Jose Alonso, Edy Dominguez, Quintiliano Rios, Adriana Velazquez, and other members of the Holy Cross/IHM parish’s Immigration Committee, to discuss his vision. The idea of “DREAMERS AND ALLIES RUN” was born.

UPDATE: Thanks to the amazing support of many generous donors, we were able to raise nearly $3,500 for undocumented youth scholarships in 2012 and we awarded nine scholarships. In 2013, we raised nearly $10,000 and we awarded 13 scholarships. Inspired by the success of our 1st and 2nd annual Dreamers and Allies Run efforts, we decided to continue this effort for the 2014 marathon. Please consider supporting education and our youth by donating to this cause! So how can you support? You can sponsor one of the 26 grueling miles! $26 for one mile helps fund undocumented college student scholarships!